DIY Concrete Paint Stencils

Meg WarrenUpdated April 17, 2017

Concrete floors, walls, driveways and pathways no longer need to be grey and boring. Concrete stencils are generally used to dye the colour of the concrete before it is completely cured. Using the same stencils and specialised paint, the same effect can be accomplished on dry concrete. The process does not require special artistic skills or special tools. The entire process of transforming already cured concrete can be completed in one weekend. The specialised concrete paint can be found in most hardware stores.

Clean the concrete using a pressure washer. Wait for the concrete to dry.

Fill cracks in the concrete with liquid cement. Wait for the liquid cement to cure.

Apply two layers of concrete primer. Allow each layer of primer to dry before applying the next.

Apply concrete sealer once the concrete primer has dried. This will seal the primer to the concrete and provide a barrier between the concrete and the paint, preventing the paint from soaking into the concrete. Wait for the sealer to dry completely before continuing.

Place the stencil onto the concrete. Determine the pattern you wish to use. Tape the stencil in place, or hold it down using bricks or other heavy items.

Cover any areas not intended to be painted. These areas would include garage doors, walls and plants. This step is only necessary if using a paint sprayer.

Apply three thin layers of concrete paint over the stencils. Thick layers of paint can seep under the stencil. Wait for each layer to dry completely before applying the next. Use a paint brush to get paint into smaller areas where a roller won't fit.

Apply two layers of clear sealer to the concrete to seal and protect the paint. Wait two days before walking on the concrete. For driveway concrete, do not park a car on the surface for three days. This will ensure that everything is dry.

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About the Author

Meg Warren began writing how-to articles professionally in 2009. Born and raised in St. Louis, Miss., Warren has always been a creative person through art, writing and music. She is currently pursuing an associate degree at Patricia Stevens College for interior design.